Frances M. Nugent

Bozrah - Frances (Morton) Nugent, 102, originally from Norwich and recently Elmbrook Village, passed away on September 20, 2026 at Bayview Health Center.

Fran was born at home in Norwich on January 17, 1924, the daughter of the late James and Anna Morton. She lived in Norwich nearly all her life and attended Norwich public schools, graduating from the Norwich Free Academy in 1941.

She graduated from Colby Junior College for Women (now Colby-Sawyer College) in 1943 and Pembroke College (now Brown University) in 1945 earning a degree with advanced studies in sociology.

During the summer of 1943 after she graduated from Colby and when WW Il was raging, Fran took a job as an Assistant Shipfitter at Electric Boat in Groton. She was one of only three women working in the entire North Yard, and she loved the physicality and diversity of the work as well as knowing that she was doing her part for her country. It was one of many EB experiences she remembered fondly.

After graduating from Brown, Fran accepted a teaching position at the elementary school in Poquetanuck, CT, simultaneously teaching students in fifth and sixth grade and covering a curriculum of a dozen subjects. Even recently she remembered the numerous subjects she taught and was humbly pleased that she successfully had taught them all.

In April 1949, she married the love of her life, Robert A. Nugent, who predeceased her in 1993. Together they made their home in Norwich and raised their family there making many cherished memories.

After she was married, Fran continued to teach for two more years at the elementary school and left thereafter to raise her family. She was active in her children's lives and enjoyed both the challenges and rewards of being a Cub Scout leader, Assistant Girl Scout leader, and Sunday School teacher. She also contributed many years volunteering in various capacities for her children's school functions, sports, and outside activities.

Once her own children were grown, Fran worked for more than a decade as the Bradlaw House secretary at NFA performing a wide variety of administrative duties for the Bradlaw House principal, two guidance counselors, and Bradlaw faculty. She loved the responsibilities of working once again in the field of education and was known for her positive interactions with both students and staff. She was also a highly respected member of the William Backus Hospital Auxiliary where she contributed many years of volunteer service. All her life she was an active member of Park Congregational Church.

Fran was extremely family oriented and loved to watch both her children and grandchildren as they participated in their numerous sports and activities. She also enjoyed a wide variety of personal interests including playing bridge and board games, reading, knitting, crocheting, and watching and playing various sports. She also created numerous pieces of crewelwork, artwork, and sculpture — several of which earned her ribboned status in local juried exhibits. Throughout her entire life she was particularly well known for her unequivocal love of animals and wildlife of all kinds.

For nearly 60 years, Fran and her family spent idyllic summers on Groton Long Point where she enjoyed making many fond memories with family and friends, and enjoying all that GLP had to offer.

No matter the circumstances or where Fran went, it was immediately clear to anyone who engaged with her how extremely gracious and unselfish she was. Ever calm and composed, Fran always placed the needs of others before her own illustrating her undeniable warmth and consideration. She lived her whole life demonstrating common courtesy, unfailing kindness, and deep compassion for others — her passing is truly the end of an era.

In addition to her husband, Fran was predeceased by her grandson, Erik Thunberg, who passed in 2023. She is survived by her daughter, Patricia Nugent of Uncasville; son, Robert Nugent (Carol) of Bozrah; and granddaughter, Pamela DeSimone (Sal) of North Stonington and their children Emily and Liam. Fran is also survived by several nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

Church & Allen Funeral Home of Norwich is in charge of an-angements, which are private. Donations in Fran's memory may be made to a nonprofit, animal rescue organization or Park Congregational Church in Norwich.